Space garbage is gunking up the skies, but a drag sail keeps the satellite's lifespan brief.
rocket for the comparatively low production cost of $10,000, with a dramatically shortened lifespan estimated at just five years. What’s more, much of the microsat was constructed using accessible, off-the-shelf components, such as a popular $20 microprocessor powered by 48 AA batteries. In total, SBUDNIC—a play on Sputnik as well as an acronym of the students’ names—is likely the first of its kind to be made almost entirely from materials not specifically designed for space travel.
With SBUDNIC’s resounding success, researchers hope implementing similar drag-sail designs at scale for future satellites could help drastically reduce their lifespans, thus reducing space clutter to ensure a safer environment for fellow orbiters, both human and artificial. And if $10,000 is still a bit out of your price range—give the team some time. “Here, we’re opening up that possibility to more people…We’re not breaking down all the barriers, but you have to start somewhere,” said Fleeter.
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